“In directing and coordinating all the work of the diocesan agencies, the Bishop will keep in mind, as a general principle, that diocesan structures should always be at the service of the good of souls and that administrative demands should not take precedence over the care of persons. Therefore, he should see that the operation is smooth and efficient, avoiding all unnecessary complexity or bureaucracy, and always directed towards its proper supernatural end.”

Paragraph 177, “Apostolorum Successores” (Directory for the Pastoral Ministry of Bishops)

---

The appointment of a Chancellor is required for every diocesan curia, in accordance with canon 482 of the Code of Canon Law.  A Chancellor may be either a member of the clergy or laity, according to the norm of canon 228. The role of the Chancellor for Administration/Chief Operating Officer is to ensure the mission and vision of the Bishop, Diocese and Universal Church are implemented and supported through the ministries of the diocese, its parishes, schools and other entities. This office oversees the day-to-day administration of the diocese, comprising the pastoral center and all institutions, offices, and departments involved in the administrative governance of the diocese. This position is currently served by: Dr. Lois Locey.

The Pastoral Center is organized into three teams covering the works of the Church:

“Sound business practice is a fundamental of good stewardship, and stewardship as it relates to church finances and administration must include the most stringent ethical, legal, and fiscal standards. That requires several things: pastors and parish staff must be open, consultative, collegial, and accountable in the conduct of affairs. And parishioners must accept responsibility for their parishes and contribute generously–both money and personal service to their programs and projects. The success or failure of parish programs, the vitality of parish life or its absence, the ability or inability of a parish to render needed services to its members and the community depend upon all.”

Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response, U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, p. 32.